Written by Kristen Zapata
Zachary Borrego, a web content producer in the Department of Marketing, Communications and Media, comes from a family deeply rooted in martial arts. Growing up in his father’s gym on the south side of San Antonio, he developed a love for it at a young age, eventually competing in tournaments worldwide. As a teenager, Borrego was selected to represent the U.S. in an international taekwondo tournament in South Korea.
“That was really the first time I saw how far martial arts could take me,” he said. “The competition is what I’ve always loved.”
Although he shifted focus to football in high school, which led to a spot on the Angelo State team, his passion for martial arts remained. After graduating and returning to San Antonio, Borrego reignited his martial arts journey. In December 2021, he had his first fight.
“I ended up turning pro a year later and have been at it ever since,” he said.
His dedication and love for the competition keep him focused, and the discipline required for training has taught him valuable lessons that extend beyond the mat, such as respect, humility and a willingness to look beyond first impressions.
“I think sometimes people just see the fighting aspect of [mixed martial arts]. It does seem very barbaric, and people may think we are some sort of savages,” he said. “Most MMA fighters are the nicest people on the planet and have the upmost respect for every opponent and everyone outside of the cage. It’s just a passion and a desire to be the best you can be.”
Training to be the best is a challenging process, but one that’s paid off for Borrego. He’s competed on ESPN’s Contender Series, an opportunity to try out for the Ultimate Fighting Championship, or UFC, and has headlined fights in San Antonio, where he said the local support has been overwhelming.
Borrego also values giving back, especially to fans from the younger generation who look up to him as a role model at his gym. “It’s a role I’ve slowly embraced and grown into,” he said.
Balancing a fighting career with his work in the digital workspace at UT Health San Antonio has been challenging, but his drive to excel in both areas is clear.
“How you do one thing is how you do everything,” he reflected, a philosophy that guides him both in the gym and at the office.